As the July 31st trade deadline nears, the Los Angeles Dodgers are aggressively exploring ways to reinforce their bullpen despite holding a commanding lead in the National League West. The club’s president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, has emphasized the urgent need for bullpen enhancements to support the team’s quest to defend their World Series crown. The Dodgers’ bullpen struggles and injury woes have turned the spotlight onto potential trade options, with Cade Smith emerging as a prime target.
Current Bullpen Setbacks Impact Team Performance
The Dodgers have encountered considerable difficulties with their relief pitching this season, ranking 24th in Major League Baseball for bullpen effectiveness. Injuries to key pitchers such as Michael Kopech, Evan Phillips, and Tanner Scott have severely depleted the available roster. Although Blake Treinen has returned from the injured list, the substantial offseason investment exceeding $100 million in relief pitching depth has not fully translated into consistent performance, prompting management to look externally for solutions.
Trade Landscape with the Cleveland Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians, contending with a .500 win-loss record and positioned just outside the American League Wild Card contention, appear ready to make roster adjustments. Speculation surrounds the possible trade of outfielder Steven Kwan and elite reliever Emmanuel Clase. Among these considerations, Cade Smith, who has become the Guardians’ standout setup man, could be the most coveted asset available to trade partners like the Dodgers aiming to revitalize their bullpen.
Cade Smith’s Skill Set and Value to Potential Suitors
Cade Smith has attracted attention due to his strong performances, highlighted by a breakout rookie season in which he posted a 1.91 ERA and a near-36% strikeout rate over 75 1/3 innings. This season, his ERA has increased to 3.07 across 41 innings, yet he maintains an imposing 35% strikeout rate alongside a 15.1% swinging strike rate. The 6-foot-5 right-hander blends a 96 MPH fastball with a dynamic splitter, making him an effective late-inning reliever. Additionally, his remaining four and a half seasons of club control before arbitration make him a strategic acquisition for teams looking to build bullpen strength over the long term.
Trade Possibilities and Dodgers’ Roster Options
The Dodgers possess a variety of trade pieces that could appeal to the Guardians. Should Cleveland prioritize pitching, prospects such as starter Emmett Sheehan or Bobby Miller, currently pitching in Triple-A Oklahoma City, could be available. Alternatively, if offensive talent is preferred, outfielder James Outman or infield prospect Alex Freeland might be attractive options. Securing Cade Smith could allow the Dodgers to upgrade their late-inning relief, potentially easing the workload on struggling closer Kirby Yates and covering for Scott’s injury absence.
Implications and What Lies Ahead for Both Teams
With the trade deadline fast approaching, Cleveland faces a critical decision on whether to retain its bullpen cornerstone or leverage him to acquire future assets. Meanwhile, Los Angeles is positioned to act quickly, potentially revealing Cade Smith as the quiet, yet impactful factor in their pursuit of bullpen stability. The outcomes of these negotiations could significantly shape both teams’ performance trajectories as they approach the season’s vital stretch.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Cade Smith’s religion?
A. Smith is married to Elizabeth, who is American. He follows Christianity.